I’ve written before about why the old idea of dogs as “pack animals” blindly following a dominant “pack leader” is not only incorrect but harmful to dogs. Today, I want to focus on something more subtle and fascinating: the daily social negotiations dogs engage in with each other. Yes, social dominance does exist in animal…
Teaching your dog to “wait” — whether it’s before dashing out the front door or jumping out of the car seat — is one of the most valuable lessons you can offer your furry friend. This simple yet powerful command does more than just prevent chaos; it can literally save your dog’s life. Beyond safety,…
When “Obedience” Isn’t So Simple: Rethinking Our Expectations for Dogs I was reading a new client’s intake form recently, and an internal alarm went off. The client emphasized that having an “obedient” dog was their top priority. I get it—who doesn’t want a well-behaved dog? But what does “obedient” really mean? By definition, obedience means…
A question I often hear is whether it’s “okay” to let a dog sleep in bed with you. The answer is deeply personal and varies widely. Many people love sharing their bed with their dogs, while others prefer not to—sometimes without knowing how to gently discourage their dogs from taking over the bed. Addressing Common…
Today, as I waited at home for a delivery, I found myself navigating a common challenge: managing my dogs’ excitement while ensuring a calm environment. Before the delivery arrived, both Rio and Deuce were crated in my office, as per our usual routine. When the knock on the door came, Rio immediately began barking, likely…
After a productive sheepherding session with Deuce, we returned home, and I got back to work in my office. Before long, I heard an unusual bark from him. Assuming he might be with John, whose office is on the opposite side of the house, I called out to check. John said Deuce wasn’t with him,…
In previous posts, I’ve discussed why the dominance model—the belief that dogs are pack animals in need of a “pack leader”—is not only flawed but also harmful to our canine companions. Today, I want to focus on an important aspect of dog behavior: the daily negotiations between them. Firstly, let me clarify that social dominance…
The early morning sun peeks through the curtains, casting a warm glow as I find myself still cocooned in the comfort of my bed. Eyes closed, I sense the presence of eager eyes fixated on me—a familiar morning routine with Rio, my spirited four-legged companion. A gentle whimper breaks the silence, and in a playful…
Struggling with dog issues at home is a common occurrence. But it does not have to be so! We first need to understand why our dog behaves the way it does. Secondly, we need a strategy to teach our dog, be it better manners, more confidence, or learning how to provide appropriate “legal outlets.” It…
Struggling with dog issues at home is a common occurrence. But it does not have to be so! We first need to understand why our dog behaves the way it does. Secondly, we need a strategy to teach our dog, be it better manners, more confidence, or learning how to provide appropriate “legal outlets.” It…